Helmed by Hidetsugu Ueno, who has appeared on American chef David Chang's TV show "Mind of a Chef," the 12-seat bar can be found in the glitzy Ginza district, in central Tokyo not far from the Tsukiji Market.
"The concept of Bar High Five is that it has no concept," Ueno tells CNN. "I don't have a menu in my bar. Our cocktails are tailor-made, one by one. Maybe we use a flavor-based spirit, maybe something sour or refreshing, or maybe something classic. It depends on the day and the guest."
Award-winning mixologist Hidetsugu Ueno.
Ueno might not have a menu, but he does have a few signatures.
A White Lady (gin, cointreau and lemon juice) has become Ueno's calling card, along with a beloved Bellini (made with fresh Japanese peaches) and his 200-plus whisky collection.
While Ueno says he can't emulate Bar High Five outside of Tokyo, due to quality control, the entrepreneur is behind the cocktails and decor at a few international outposts.
Back in Tokyo, when travelers pull up a seat at Bar High Five, Ueno is quick to suggest his favorite restaurants and bars around town.
CNN Travel caught up with the master mixologist to learn about his favorite spots, from beer halls to sophisticated sushi experiences.
Star Bar
"I trained with Mr Kishi (Hisashi Kishi) at Star Bar for many years," says Ueno. "It sounds a bit strange but since Mr Kishi is my master bartender, he introduces customers to me -- and not the other way around. It never goes back the opposite way.
"But of course, I recommend Star Bar. The drinks are phenomenal and Mr Kishi is there to make them. The atmosphere is great and some of the bartenders speak a little bit English so you can communicate.
"They don't carry a menu either, but his signature is the Sidecar. It's very smooth and elegant."
Marugin
"I enjoy the simple things, like eating at little Japanese izakaya. I have a favorite but it's really local.
"It's called Marugin. They're very nice and they have an English menu. This is a great place for small bites -- grilled chicken with rice, or you can eat noodles if you want. They have everything.
"It's a place where you order beer or a highball, you know, whisky with soda in a jug, and people drinking have a good time."
Ginza Lion
Inside Ginza Lion beer hall.
"There is a beautiful beer hall in town as well. It's called Lion. It was built in the 1930s and was the very first beer hall in Japan, on the street level in Ginza.
"It's owned by Sapporo beer. They have their own Lion special and many different kinds of beers, like stout, lager, white ales, everything. They serve Japanese-ified German food too -- my favorite is the famous thin-sliced roast beef, but it sells out quickly."
Read More: Tokyo bartender's dining guide: Where to eat and drink